Laser crystal

Abstract

Improved laser system gain is achieved by using Gadolinium to totally replace the Yttrium in a Lithium Yttrium Fluoride (YLF) host crystal so as to increase the amount of Neodymium which can be doped into the host crystal.

We claim: 
     
       1. A crystal, comprising: a Lithium Gadolinium Fluoride host material; and active ions of Neodymium wherein the concentration of Neodymium ions is higher than four percent.   
     
     
       2. A laser, comprising: a resonant cavity;   means for abstracting energy from said cavity;   an active crystal disposed in said cavity, said crystal including a Lithium Gadolinium Fluoride host doped with active ions of Neodymium wherein the concentration of Neodymium active ions is higher than four percent; and   means for pumping said crystal.